System firmware consists of two components: an SP component and a host component. The SP firmware component is located on the SPM within the SP. The host firmware component is located on the SP boards, and is downloaded to the CMIOU when the host is started. For the server to operate correctly, the firmware in these two components must be compatible.
Before replacing an SP, save the configuration using the Oracle ILOM backup utility. Refer to the Oracle ILOM documentation for instructions on backing up and restoring the Oracle ILOM configuration.
After replacing an SP, the SP firmware, the host firmware, and the configuration will be restored from the existing Active SP to the new SP.
Oracle ILOM documentation (http://www.oracle.com/goto/ilom/docs)